Bring Michael & Jodene Back to Drachenfest Australia 2025

The Story so Far

In 2024, Michael and Jodene set off on an ambitious journey to dive deep into the heart of a game they love: Drachenfest. From its German roots to the expanding communities across the globe, they traveled the world to learn, teach, and contribute to this ever-growing international LARP family.

As Guild Leads and dedicated staff at Drachenfest US since its inception in 2022, they were invited to Drachenfest Germany—the birthplace of the game—to work as staff and immerse themselves in the original culture. There, they didn’t just absorb knowledge; they actively shared what they’d learned, creating cross-continental bridges in a global game that somehow manages to feel like home, no matter the language or location.

Their final stop in 2024 was Drachenfest Australia, where the very first event was just beginning. What was meant to be a trip to lend a hand became something far more meaningful. They jumped into action, offering their help wherever it was needed most:

Michael and Jodene brought their years of experience running LARPs to support their friends with this brand-new game. But what surprised them most wasn’t the work; it was how deeply they fell in love with Australian culture and community. After being invited to come early and stay late, they found themselves not just helping a game—they were connecting with people, exploring Melbourne, and making lifelong friendships.

Now, they’re hoping to come back.

Not for a vacation. Not just to relive the magic. But to continue the work they’ve started, in what will be a crucial year of growth for Drachenfest Australia. As the game builds on its inaugural year, the foundations laid in 2024 will need to be solidified into traditions that define the future of DFAU. Michael and Jodene are ready to be there to help make that happen.

So why this campaign?

Because like many creative endeavors, DFAU is still operating on a lean budget. And like many people, Michael and Jodene can’t afford another international trip out-of-pocket. But what they can offer is their passion, dedication, and a wealth of experience—if the community can help them get there.

They’re not asking for a free ride. They’re asking if the work they’ve done, and the value they bring to Drachenfest, is worth pitching in for.

Michael, a world-traveled narrative fighter, brings theatrical combat and story-driven conflict to life. His duels and dynamic presence in the Fighter’s Guild helped create a new kind of battlefield—one built on narrative tension and emotional stakes. He's not just a skilled teacher or combatant; however, last year he was refered to as "Brendan's yellow tail" because while the main organizer was dealing with the major parts of running a week long event for hundreds of people, Michael was using his experience and leadership skills to help pick up any slack and make sure things weren't being missed.

Jodene, a seasoned LARP organizer and one of the creative forces behind ritual magic systems in LARPs across Canada and the US, helped DFAU strike the perfect balance between drama and game mechanics. Her behind-the-scenes leadership helped the event run smoothly, even when no one noticed she was quietly helping keep it all on track.

The 2025 game runs October 21–26, and we’re launching this campaign early to allow time for flight planning and the best possible prices. Every little bit helps—and every share, dollar, or kind word gets Michael and Jodene closer to continuing their journey with DFAU.

Why This GoFundMe?

Michael and Jodene would love nothing more than to return to Drachenfest Australia 2025, not just to relive the magic, but to build on the strong foundation laid last year. 2025 will be a crucial year of growth for DFAU, and the best time to reinforce the traditions, systems, and culture that make Drachenfest so special.

But international travel is expensive, and like most people in the LARP world, they simply can’t cover the flights on their own again. So this campaign is their humble request:

If you believe their contributions to Drachenfest are valuable…

If you saw the impact they made last year…

If you want to help build a stronger, more connected global LARP community…

Please consider pitching in to help bring them back.

How You Can Help

Donate what you can—every dollar helps get them closer

Share this campaign with your LARP community, friends, or anyone who’s passionate about global collaboration

Leave a message—encouragement and kind words mean the world

Thank you for supporting the storytellers, builders, and volunteers who make this game unforgettable.

Let’s bring Michael and Jodene back for round 2!